High Commissioner Opens Up About Life In London

From Police Commissioner to High Commissioner, Ellison Greenslade has made public service his life’s work. Though his latest role has taken him far away from home, The Bahamas High Commissioner to the UK says he is thoroughly enjoying the “significant work”.

He sat down with Vaughnique Toote in London for this edition of ” A Closer Look”.

Since the age of 18, Ellison Greenslade has risen up the ranks of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, ascending to the top post of Police Commissioner. However, in 2017, he traded in his khakis for a suit and tie, serving as The Bahamas High Commissioner to the UK.

Greenslade was all smiles as he greeted Our News at Bahamas House, which is home to The Bahamas High Commission and the Ministry of Tourism.

Located in London’s upscale Mayfair District, this building has belonged to The Bahamas Government since 1987. However, there are touches of the newest Bahamas High Commissioner in parts of this space. Though the transition from Police Commissioner to High Commissioner wasn’t easy, he has come into his own.

Twenty staffers report to work at Bahamas House. That number was higher before the Covid-19 pandemic, which Greenslade described as a difficult period.

The pandemic, and subsequent travel restrictions, also meant Greenslade has visited the Bahamas just once – for nine days – since his appointment in 2017.

He explained one must serve in the post for 18 months before becoming entitled to home leave. After that, Covid struck.

Though he started a new chapter in his life, the former Police Chief still looks back fondly on his time on the force.

He called the police force the university of life, adding he attended every day and he paid attention to the lessons.